University of Illinois

Grade Replacement Policy

What is grade replacement?

Starting in Fall 2010, all undergraduate students now have the option to repeat courses where they earned a C- or below and use the new grade to replace the grade they earned in the first attempt. If the second grade is an improvement on the first, then only the second grade earned in the course will factor into a student's grade point average (GPA).

There are limits on the courses and hours that can be replaced, so make sure you closely review the Student Code.

How do I obtain approval to replace a course grade?

Students must obtain permission from their home college. DGS students should make an appointment with their academic advisor to discuss the option and complete the required approval form.

Approval must be obtained by the halfway point of the semester in which the course is being repeated.

  • For full semester courses, that is the eighth week of the semester.
  • For half semester courses, it's through the fourth week of that course.

Can I still repeat a course and not replace the grade?

Certainly. There may be instances where this option makes sense. Students who wish to discuss their best choice should make an appointment with their academic advisor.

How is grade replacement viewed by graduate/professional schools?

For pre-law students considering applying to law school, please read this message from the Pre-Law Advising Services website regarding the Law School Admissions Council.

For pre-health students considering any type of health professional school, please read this message from the Pre-Health Advisors at The Career Center regarding how this policy is applied to the various health professional programs.

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